Moratti hopeful over Sanchez

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti believes there is a 60% chance that Udinese winger Alexis Sanchez will join the club this summer but said a move for Palermo's Javier Pastore is impossible.

GettyImagesMassimo Moratti (R) is looking to strengthen the Inter squad for next season

• City rule out Sanchez bid
• Milan reject Pastore talk
• Chelsea bid for Pastore rejected
Chile international Sanchez, 22, has been linked with a number of top clubs around Europe, but Manchester City now appear to have given up their pursuit and Inter and Juventus look to be leading the race for his signature.
Moratti told Inter Channel: "It's hard to give a precise reply at a moment in which we are trying to figure out if the clubs will sell, how they will sell, the prices, wages and whether certain exchanges will be able to be made.
"However, let's say that the player with whom we are speaking, and I don't know the odds of our success, is certainly Sanchez, because we've been talking about it for a long time. Also because he's a player with many qualities and because we've opened a certain kind of discussion with Udinese.
"Let's say not that he's definitely coming but [that] there is a 60% chance that he will arrive."
Inter were among the clubs said to have expressed an interest in Argentina playmaker Pastore but, with Palermo demanding €50 million for his services, it appears Moratti is not willing to enter the bidding.
"We all know that Pastore is excellent, he also played well against us in the Coppa Italia final, but I don't think that negotiations are possible," he said.
Inter have been linked with Roma vice-captain Daniele De Rossi, who has a lifelong association with the city and is considered an icon of the club, and Moratti was equivocal about his hopes of signing the player.
"De Rossi, in my opinion, is not a bad idea at all, but I don't believe we have initiated any kind of negotiations with Roma, also because the club is going through a re-organisation," he added.
"I do not think there are such contacts to be able to study what can be done, and then there's the fact that the player is tied to his club and especially the city, but I too consider him a player of great quality and character, and therefore I don't think for him to have an experience with us would be a bad thing..."

Agent: Liverpool holding Doni talks

iverpool are negotiating a deal with Serie A giants Roma to sign Brazilian goalkeeper Alexander Doni, according to the player's agent.

GettyImagesAlexander Doni: Would provide cover at Liverpool

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Liverpool have been searching for an experienced keeper to provide competition for Pepe Reina and Doni's representative has confirmed transfer talks are at an advanced stage.
Doni, who is under contract with the Roma for a further season, has been strongly linked with a move away from the Stadio Olimpico this summer and could be heading to Anfield.
"I spoke to the club (Roma) yesterday and they confirmed they are holding talks with Liverpool to reach an agreement regarding the transfer of Doni,'' Ovidio Colucci said.
"Once an agreement is reached betwen the two clubs, we will begin negotiating personal terms with Liverpool. Doni would be very happy to join Liverpool and play in the Premier League.''
The 31-year-old joined Roma in 2005 from Brazilian side Juventude. He has been an understudy to Giallorossi goalkepeer Julio Sergio in recent seasons, and made 16 league appearances for Roma this term

No Milan approach for Aquilani - agent

Alberto Aquilani's agent has denied reports in Italy that the Liverpool midfielder has been approached by AC Milan.

GettyImagesJuventus have been stalling over whether to make Alberto Aquilani's loan move permanent

• Pirlo urges Rossi to join Juve
• Hamsik staying at Napoli
• Gattuso turns down Russia move
Aquilani, 26, spent the 2010-11 season on loan at Juventus but the Turin giants have yet to confirm if they will sign him on a permanent basis.
Milan are looking to reinforce their midfield line following the departure of Andrea Pirlo to Juve and reports in Italy have strongly linked Aquilani to the Rossoneri this summer.
But Franco Zavaglia, the former Roma midfielder's agent, has categorically denied that Milan have made any approach for his client.
"I can say that I am not aware of any interest from AC Milan,'' Zavaglia told Gazzetta dello Sport. "They are just rumours and we have had no contact with Milan.
"Juve have asked us for a few days to reflect and in the meantime, we are looking at the options in Italy and abroad.
"I don't think the problem has to do with the buy-out clause but rather that they (Juventus) are looking for someone whose characteristics are more defensive. We will see what happens.
"Whatever happens, Alberto is not left in the middle of the road as he still has three years left of his contract with Liverpool.''
Liverpool signed Aquilani for a reported fee of £20 million from Roma in 2009, but injuries plagued his first season at Anfield, restricting him to just nine Premier League starts.
However, the Italy international managed 33 Serie A games for Juve in 2010-11, scoring twice for the Bianconeri.

Gattuso turns down Anzhi

AC Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has rejected a move to Russian-based club Anzhi Makhachkala and will remain with the Italian champions next season.

GettyImagesAC Milan won the Serie A title with old heads like Gennaro Gattuso and Clarence Seedorf in the side

Gattuso, 33, is rumoured to be on his way out of the San Siro this summer, and had been mulling over an offer from the Dagestan club before deciding to turn it down.
''I evaluated the offer,'' Gattuso told Gazzetta dello Sport. "It was an important offer but in the end, I believe it is better to be with the family at home. I have been 12 years at Milan and it's my home.''
Gattuso has one more year remaining on his contract with the Rossoneri and the World Cup winner made 31 league appearances this season to help Milan clinch their first Scudetto since 2004, scoring two goals.

Ibrahimovic laughs off 'untrue' Real link

AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has completely dismissed reports that he could be a transfer target for Real Madrid and insisted he wants to stay with the Rossoneri "for another three years".

APZlatan Ibrahimovic was a big hit in his first season with Milan, scoring 21 goals in 41 games

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Ibrahimovic, 29, enjoyed an excellent 2010-11 season with Milan - impressing enough to earn a permanent return to Serie A from Barcelona.
The Swedish forward scored 21 goals in his one season in Catalonia, but he never appeared to fit in at Camp Nou and Barca's signing of David Villa last summer signalled the end of his time at the club.
Ibrahimovic moved on loan to Milan before completeing a permannet deal in January, though his move back to Italy did not sit well with fans of city rivals Inter, for who he had played for three seasons between 2006 and 2009.
Now Spanish newspaper El Mundo Deportivo has suggested Ibrahimovic could make another controversial move.
It says the striker is interesting Real Madrid, coached by former Inter boss Jose Mourinho - who swapped him with Samuel Eto'o in the summer of 2009.
But Ibrahimovic, who has won a domestic league title in each of his last five seasons, insists the report is hearsay and spelled out his intention to stay at Milan.
"It's completely untrue," he told Swedish media. "I want to stay with Milan for another three years. I am happy there."
Real are thought to be looking to bolster their attacking oprions after missing out on the Primera Division title for a third successive season, with Sergio Aguero thought to top their list of potential targets.

Xavi: Barcelona are the best

Barcelona midfielder Xavi has claimed the current European and Spanish champions are the best team of the last 20 years and hailed Lionel Messi as the best player of all time.

GettyImagesXavi celebrates with his Barcelona champions

• Brewin: Barca machine purrs
• Phil Ball: Deja vu for United
• Messi unhurt after youth's punch
• Rossi wants to join Barcelona
Barcelona swept all before them once again this season to pick up the La Liga and Champions League double and the Spain international was happy to indulge in some rare trumpet blowing.
He told German newspaper Bild: ''There have been some great teams in history, Pele's Brazil, (Johan) Cruyff's Ajax, (Arrigo) Sacchi's Milan but in the past 20 years this Barcelona team is the best.''
On Messi, he added: ''He is the best player of all time - better than Pele, Maradona or Cruyff. We have to protect him as he is crucial. Without him we would not be what we are.''
Coach Pep Guardiola has also received high praise for his work, and although reports suggested that he was on the verge of standing down, Xavi claimed he hopes the former Barcelona midfielder ''stays forever''.
He added: ''He (Guardiola) is very intelligent, very enthusiastic and very 'Barcelona-ish'. He is a great coach and I hope he stays forever, if not as coach then as sporting director or president.''
The only black mark in the Catalans' season was the Copa del Rey final defeat to arch-rivals Real Madrid. Xavi, though, was critical of the approach adopted by Jose Mourinho's men throughout the season.
He said: ''Madrid were the hardest opponents but not because they played football but because they wanted to destroy the game. I like Manchester United's approach a thousand times better. It would be interesting to see what would happen if Real did play.''

Pirlo wants Rossi at Juve

New Juventus signing Andrea Pirlo has urged the club to sign Villarreal striker Giuseppe Rossi from under the noses of Barcelona.

PA PhotosGiuseppe Rossi proved himself worthy of a starting berth for Italy, scoring the Azzurri's first against Estonia

• Oriol: Rossi wants Barca move
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• Rossi calm over Barca link
Rossi has been linked with a move to the Nou Camp, with negotiations ongoing over his transfer and the Italian has been outed by team-mate Joan Oriol as wanting to move this summer.
However, Italy legend Pirlo joined Juve last month and wants Rossi to join him in Turin to bring the club their first Scudetto since the 2002-03 campaign.
"We must buy players of proven quality to get ourselves back to the top and start winning trophies again. In my opinion it looks like we have a great year ahead of us," Pirlo told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
"He's [Rossi's] the type of player that every club needs, it would be great to have him here with us."
Rossi scored the first goal for Italy as they beat Estonia 3-0 in the Euro 2012 qualifiers this weekend.

Oriol: Rossi ready to join Barca

Villarreal defender Joan Oriol has confirmed that Giuseppe Rossi would like a move to Barcelona this summer.

• Klose talks up Lazio move
• Agent: Barca in negotiations
• Rossi calm over Barca link
Speculation over the future of Rossi has been growing in recent weeks, with the player speaking of his desire to play for the Spanish champions, while Villarreal coach Juan Carlos Garrido said the player will be sold if the club gets a good offer for him.
Rossi, rated at around €27 million, scored 18 goals in 36 La Liga starts for the Yellow Submarine last season and scored the same number of goals in 2009-10 too. Now the Italy international is set to be rewarded with a move to the Catalan giants.
"Rossi wants to go to Barcelona," Oriol told COM Radio. "He hopes [that] everything goes well and that he will be wearing the Azulgrana colours next season.
"Rossi could bring plenty to Barcelona, quality, experience and youth. He is a player who fits the Barcelona profile. I think he is the best player they can sign.
"He would easily adapt there and he would take on the competition well at Barcelona. He knows the risks of moving there.''

Messi unhurt after youth aims punch

ionel Messi has emerged unscathed after a youth aimed a punch at him outside a restaurant in his home city of Rosario on Thursday.

GettyImagesLionel Messi escaped unhurt.

Barcelona star Messi had stopped to sign autographs, but one youngster who was reportedly dressed in the uniform of a nearby school, attempted to assault the Argentine before running away.
"There was a crush of people waiting outside," Pablo Moyano, who was working in the restaurant, told Argentine TV. "There were kids, reporters, photographers waiting ... and one of the kids tried to punch him. I don't know if he pulled it off. He went running afterward."
"We're taking photos and we see the arm and he dodges it. (Messi) did not react badly, he left walking and got into the (car)," witness Carolina told the TV news channel C5N.
Messi tried to play down the incident on his Facebook page.
"To relax all those people that have asked us about the truth of the accident coming out of the restaurant, tell them I did not receive any blow from anyone. I'm perfectly OK," he wrote.
Argentine media reported that Messi's aggressor was a fan of Rosario Central, arch-rivals of Newell's Old Boys where the 23-year-old began his career before moving to Spain.
Messi is currently holidaying in Rosario before the beginning of the Copa America on July 1 with Argentina facing Bolivia.

Udinese: No Barca deal for Sanchez

dinese have denied that an agreement has been reached with Barcelona for Alexis Sanchez, with the Italians claiming that there has been no contact at all from Camp Nou.

PA PhotosAlexis Sanchez is being courted by Europe's elite clubs

• Soldati: Barca favourites for Sanchez
Reports in Spain on Wednesday say a deal between the two clubs had been reached on Tuesday night for the Chilean forward, but Udinese president Franco Soldati has moved swiftly to reject those claims.
"Regarding reports of a possible transfer of Chilean striker Alexis Sanchez to FC Barcelona, I would like to point out that they are not true," he said.
"No agreement has been reached between Udinese and Barcelona for the transfer of this player. Moreover, no meeting has been scheduled between the two clubs to discuss such transfer.''
Despite Udinese's insistence that no dialogue has begun with European Champions Barca, Sanchez appeared to talk up a possible move to Barca earlier this week.
Sanchez told Futbol: "Barcelona would be a splendid destination. The interest of great clubs makes me proud. It means I am doing well.
"I want to progress, play and win important trophies and to do this you need to play for the most prestigious clubs. Therefore I hope to have this chance.''
Inter Milan, Chelsea, Manchester City and Manchester United are also thought to be in the race to acquire the 22-year-old, who is under contract with Udinese until June 2014.
Sanchez has enjoyed a fine campaign with Udinese, scoring 12 goals to help the Bianconeri qualify for the Champions League next season.

South Korea 2 - 1 Ghana

Last-gasp Koo wins it for South Korea

AP

South Korea's Ji Dong-Won celebrates his goal against Ghana

Scoring Summary

South Korea	Ghana
Dong-Won Ji (12')	Asamoah Gyan (65')
Ja-Cheol Koo (90')

Teams

South Korea	Ghana
Substitutions
· Squads: South Korea | Ghana

A last-minute goal from Koo Ja-Cheol gave South Korea victory over Ghana in an international friendly at Jeonju World Cup Stadium.
The Wolfsburg midfielder scrambled home from close range after Asamoah Gyan - who also missed a first-half penalty - had cancelled out Ji Dong-won's opener.
Just as in the 2-1 win over Serbia on Friday, the hosts took an early lead when Ji climbed above the Ghana defence to head a Ki Sung-yong corner into the net. Ghana goalkeeper Richard Kingson got his hands to the ball but could not keep it out.
Just three minutes later, Hong Jeong-ho brought down Gyan in the area but the Sunderland striker saw his low penalty comfortably saved by Jung Sung-ryeong.
Both teams continued to have chances. Jung saved from Gyan soon after and Ji had a chance to add a second when through on goal but could not lift the ball over Kingson.
The game continued in the same vein after the break. Monaco striker Park Chu-young hit the crossbar with a 25-yard rocket on the hour but after 64 minutes, Ghana were level.
Sulley Muntari's pass split a static defence leaving Gyan to slot a low shot past the previously impressive Jung.
The game was heading for a draw when Ji headed across goal in injury time to leave Koo with a simple finish.

Cameron: FIFA 'at an all-time low'

FIFA's reputation is now at an "all-time low'', UK Prime Minister said today as he called on world football's governing body to become "more transparent and more accountable''.

GettyImagesUK prime minister David Cameron met Sepp Blatter as part of England's 2018 World Cup bid

• FIFA to open bribery investigation
• Warner backs down
• Warner: FIFA facing tsunami
David Cameron told MPs the Football Association should ``play a very major role'' in helping to reform FIFA following Sepp Blatter's re-appointment as president in an uncontested election, which he described as a "farce''.
Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions, Mr Cameron told the Commons: "Personally, I have seen football governance at an international level and I wasn't that impressed by what I saw.
"What I would say is this: FIFA's reputation is now at an all-time low and obviously the election with just one candidate was something of a farce but it has to become more transparent and more accountable.
"They have got to prove that they are actually capable of doing the job that they are meant to. But ultimately change has got to come from within football and I am sure the FA will want to play a very major role in helping to bring that about.''
Mr Cameron's comments came after Tory MP James Wharton (Stockton South) said there "should be no place for corruption in football''.
He asked Mr Cameron: "Given that the re-election of Sepp Blatter has brought FIFA even further into disrepute, will you take this opportunity to voice your support for those calling for the reforms we need to finally show Mr Blatter the red card?'

Robson leaves Thailand post

Both head coach Bryan Robson and assistant Steve Darby have left their posts with Thailand national team "by mutual consent" according to the Thai FA president.

Robson, a former England international, underwent surgery for throat cancer in March after replacing compatriot Peter Reid in September 2009. His former club Manchester United, though, stated on their official website that Robson's recent cancer scare was not behind his decision to leave the Thailand post.
"Bryan wished to resign and his contract was terminated by mutual consent, but I cannot give any more details," Football Association of Thailand President Worawi Makudi told Reuters.
Thailand dropped 15 places to 120th in the FIFA rankings under Robson's management and won just seven of 18 matches.
Robson remains an official ambassador at Old Trafford and will continue in that role.

Fred ousts Nilmar in Brazil Copa squad

Brazil coach Mano Menezes has surprisingly selected Fluminense captain Fred in his Copa America squad, with Villarreal striker Nilmar missing the cut at his expense.

• Brazil win as Ronaldo bids final farewell
Fred, 27, scored Brazil's winner in 1 -0 victory over Romania on Tuesday night, a game that saw Ronaldo's final appearance for the Selecao.
The former Lyon forward was withdrawn after half an hour, with O Fenomeno coming on in his place, but Fred's goal appeared to do enough to convince Menezes that he was worthy of a place in the Brazil squad for the continental showpiece in Argentina next month.
Fred is one of four strikers, alongside Robinho, Alexandre Pato and Neymar, and he also pipped Internacional striker Leandro Damiao, who has impressed recently with his displays in the Gaucho State Championship.
Brazil are defending champions and Menezes side are looking to win the tournament for the third time in a row and fifth time in six editions.
Santos star Ganso has also made the cut for the Selecao's campaign in Argentina, despite missing the last two matches through injury; he is expected to return for his club in their Copa Libertadores semi-final second leg against Penarol on June 22.
Brazil squad for Copa America:
Goalkeepers Victor (Gremio), Julio Cesar (Inter)
Defenders: Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Maicon (Inter), Andre Santos (Fenerbahce), Adriano (Barcelona), Lucio (Inter), Thiago Silva (Milan), David Luiz (Chelsea) Luisao (Benfica)
Midfielders: Lucas Leiva (Liverpool), Ramires (Chelsea), Sandro (Tottenham), Jadson (Shakhtar Donetsk), Elias (Atletico Madrid), Elano (Santos), Paulo Henrique Ganso (Santos), Lucas Silva (Sao Paulo)
Forwards: Robinho (Milan), Alexandre Pato (Milan), Fred (Fluminense), Neymar (Santos)

Bayern finally agree deal for Neuer

manuel Neuer will play for Bayern Munich from next season after a fee was agreed with Schalke.

Neuer was moving into the last year of his contract with Schalke and was certain to move on. He had been linked with Manchester United but the goalkeeper always made it clear he wanted to remain in Germany.
He will officially sign a five-year contract with the Bavarians once he undergoes a medical upon his return from international duty, and become a Bayern player on July 1.
Neuer said: "I am really looking forward to this huge and exciting challenge at Bayern.
"Many of my international team-mates will be my team-mates in Munich. Therefore I won't be going into a new environment and will certainly settle in quickly.''
Bayern chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge said: "Bayern are very happy in Manuel Neuer to have signed for the long term not only the Germany number one, but also one of the best goalkeepers in the world.''
Neuer has been Schalke's number one since making his debut in 2005, and made his farewell appearance in their DFB-Pokal final victory earlier this month.
Schalke general manager and board member Horst Heldt said the club had allowed Neuer to leave with a heavy heart: "This was a difficult decision for all those involved, because in Manuel Neuer the club are losing an outstanding player in every respect.
"But we have now finally decided to accept Bayern's offer, because given the circumstances it is the best solution for Schalke. We also promised Manuel we would honour his wish to be able to move on in the summer. Even though it will certainly hurt almost all Schalke supporters to the soul to lose such a role model, we should not forget the great things Manuel Neuer has achieved at the club.
"In sporting terms, he had a huge role in the success of the last five years, this season in winning the DFB-Pokal and in reaching the Champions League semi-finals for the first time.''
Bayern have also confirmed the signing of one of Neuer's former Schalke team-mates, Brazilian right-back Rafinha, from Genoa. The 25-year-old, who spent five years in Gelsenkirchen before moving to Serie A last year, has signed a three-year contract at Bayern.
Ralf Fahrmann will be Neuer's replacement at Schalke after he rejoined the club at which he started his career on a free transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt. The 22-year-old has joined on a four-year contract.

Bayern complete Neuer signing

Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has completed his transfer to Bayern Munich, signing for the Bavarians on a five-year deal after passing a medical on Wednesday.

• Hesse: Schalke profit from Neuer
Bayern announced last week that they had signed the sought-after goalkeeper from Schalke, but had to wait to put the finishing touches on the transfer after he had been away on international duty with Germany in Azerbaijan.
Neuer, 25, had been expected to join Bayern since April when he confirmed he would not extend his contract at Schalke.
In the interim he was linked to Manchester United after impressing in Schalke's Champions League semi-final defeat to the Red Devils, however, he said at his unveiling he only ever intended to join Bayern.
"I feel this is the right move because I am the Germany goalkeeper and Bayern Munich is the best club in Germany,'' he told Bayern Munich's official website.
"I'm glad that everything is now behind me. I am looking forward to this challenge, the first training sessions and training camps.''
Neuer is the first major signing for new boss Jupp Heynckes with the club having also plumped for Brazilian defender Rafinha as they look to rebuild after a relatively poor season last time out.
The Bavarians only snuck into third place in the Bundesliga table, crucially qualifying for the Champions League to salvage something from a disappointing campaign, but goalkeeper proved a problem position for them.
However, Neuer believes he can help turn the club's fortunes around as he looks to cement his growing reputation with silverware.
"I know definitely what I want,'' he said. "I look forward to these five years. I know Munich and I think I will feel comfortable here. I know this is not normal for me, this is all new territory. But I look forward to it.''

Nasri plays down Arsenal exit talk

Samir Nasri has moved to quell speculation about his future, with the Arsenal midfielder telling the club's fans not to believe speculation that has been written in the newspapers.

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Nasri is heading into the final year of his contract at Arsenal and cast doubt on his future at the club by refusing to dismiss talk of a move to Manchester United.
The midfielder also claimed talks with Arsenal are continuing, but the comments about United were seized on.
Nasri feels the comments have been blown out of proportion and has insisted he will speak about his future when there is something to clarify.
"I just want tell you don't listen (to) the newspapers and the rumours. I will let you know if something happens," Nasri wrote on Twitter.
United are in the market for a new creative force following the retirement of Paul Scholes, but Gunners manager Arsene Wenger said recently that the club would never sell Nasri to the Red Devils.

Ferdinand comes bottom in vocab study

An analysis of footballers' vocabulary on social networking site Twitter has revealed Manchester United Rio Ferdinand to have an overwhelmingly 'basic' command of the English language.

Rooney are regular tweeters.

Ferdinand, who has led the way for footballers on Twitter under the name @rioferdy5 and recently engaged in a war of words with Daily Mirror journalist Oliver Holt, has been criticised by former News of the World editor Piers Morgan for his poor spelling and grammar.
And now, a Google study has revealed that 88% of Ferdinand's words were "basic" while 11% were "intermediate".
Other players to have been tested fared better, with Ferdinand's United team-mate Wayne Rooney (@WayneRooney) surprisingly articulate, with 43% basic and 56% intermediate.
Everton skipper Phil Neville had the most expansive vocabulary among his peers, using 59% intermediate words mixed with 40% basic.

Hernandez: I owe a great debt to Fergie

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez insists he intends to stay loyal to Sir Alex Ferguson after the veteran Scot took a gamble on bringing him to Europe last summer.

• Kagawa keen on Man Utd move
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Hernandez, 23, was relatively unknown outside Mexico this time last year, when United announced that they had signed the forward from Guadalajara for £6 million.
But he burst onto the international scene at the World Cup in South Africa and made a big impression in his debut season at Old Trafford, scoring 20 goals as United won a record 19th league title and reached the Champions League final.
His ruthless finishing and impressive work-rate are believed to have caught the eye of Real Madrid, who are on the lookout for some new firepower up front, but Chicharito can only see his future at United - with Ferguson's belief in him a key reason for him wanting to stay.
"I'm very motivated after a great season with United," Hernandez said. "From now on I'll owe a great debt to Sir Alex for bringing me to Europe.
"My dream has not changed. I want to win many titles to give back to the team that opened the doors for me."
Hernandez scored a hat-trick in Mexico's CONCACAF Gold Cup demolition of El Salvador on Monday, but was quick to play down the plaudits he received after the game.
"I'm not a symbol or idol," Hernandez said. "Football is not a sport like golf but a team game."

Fergie: We must stop Barca trio

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson admits he must find a way to stop Barcelona's three best attacking players in the Champions League final.

PA PhotosSir Alex Ferguson insists his players are as determined as ever

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United and Barcelona are on the verge of sealing their domestic titles and will come face-to-face in a repeat of the 2009 final at Wembley on May 28. Ferguson hopes that his attacking players can create problems for the Catalans.
"Obviously, Barcelona is the big one now," Ferguson told US-based radio station Sirius XM. "What we have to do is find a solution to the Xavi-Messi-Iniesta problem.
''Everyone is searching for that because they are outstanding footballers. We have our share too. In the final last time we started off really well, then gave away a bad goal. After that Barcelona kept the ball very well, as they always do.
"We have players who can cause any team a lot of bother and hopefully those attacking players will give Barcelona problems that everyone thinks they are going to give us."
Ferguson also hit out at the critics who have claimed United are not as good a team as in previous years.
"Everyone has said this is not a good Manchester United team, that we are not this or that," he said. "But we have scored more goals than anyone else. Our home form has been magnificent. We are undefeated in Europe. We are in the Champions League final and we will win the league by getting one more point.
"You have to put all the criticism to one side because I have to be realistic when I look at my team and ask 'Am I satisfied?' Those players have given me everything."

Owen: Focus on Barca clash

Michael Owen has confirmed Manchester United's thoughts have already turned towards the Champions League final.

PA PhotosMichael Owen is focusing on the Champions League final

• Blues chief expects integrity to prevail
• Morgan: Fine under-strength United
Sir Alex Ferguson is expected to make a huge number of changes for Sunday's final Premier League encounter with Blackpool at Old Trafford even though the game will have a significant bearing on the relegation battle.
Tangerines boss Ian Holloway has already expressed his displeasure at the prospect of Ferguson being fined for fielding a weakened team.
However, that seems unlikely to influence Ferguson, who in any case has plenty of internationals who need a game, plus some, such as Owen and Wes Brown, who might be making farewell appearances in front of the Old Trafford faithful.
There is no disguising what United are focused on now though, with Owen admitting training sessions were now being geared towards that Wembley confrontation with Barcelona on May 28.
"We obviously have a duty to the Premier League to perform against Blackpool and to win that game,'' Owen told MUTV. "But I would be lying if I said one eye wasn't on Barcelona now. A lot of what we are doing in training is focused on stopping them.
"I was even playing as David Villa on the left wing in training trying to mimic how Barcelona play. We are starting to prepare for that game but we will certainly be focused on Blackpool on Sunday.''
In addition to Owen and Brown, it could also turn out to be the final competitive game at Old Trafford for Paul Scholes. The 36-year-old has still to decide whether to accept Ferguson's one-year contract offer and there is a growing body of opinion that feels Scholes will ultimately decide to call it a day.
If so, Scholes will head into retirement with 10 league title medals, 675 United appearances, providing he is involved in one of his club's final two games, and acknowledged by many as the best English midfield player of his generation.
His is now an understated contribution, but it is one of the reasons John O'Shea feels any debate over the merits of this present United outfit should end.
"This team has been knocked quite a bit this season but what does that mean for the rest of the teams in the Premier League?'' O'Shea said. "The team that wins the league has been the best team.''

City deny Ronaldo intent

Manchester City have rejected speculation that they are about to launch a big-money move for Cristiano Ronaldo.

GettyImagesCristiano Ronaldo is not a transfer target claim Man City

• Tevez: I want to leave Man City
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Ronaldo, a former World Player of the Year, quit Manchester United for Real Madrid in an £80 million deal two years ago and has been in fine form since his arrival at the Bernabeu.
However, despite the 26-year-old's 51 goals in all competitions this season, Real missed out on both the Primera Division title and Champions League glory.
With relations between Ronaldo and coach Jose Mourinho said to be strained, it has been suggested City could swoop with a bid far in excess of what Real paid for the Portugal international.
Such a move would contradict the claims chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak made in his end-of-season address on the City website, which was released on Thursday, in which he stated firmly that there would not be a mass influx of players this summer and that the club were committed to working within UEFA's new financial fair play rules.
City officials have now confirmed that Ronaldo is not a transfer target this summer, claiming the speculation is pure 'mischief-making'.
"Speculation linking the club with Ronaldo is ill-informed and unfounded and nothing other than mischief-making," senior officials told Sky Sports.
"Whilst there is no doubt that Ronaldo is one of the world's greatest players, he is not on the club's list of transfer targets."
Before manager Roberto Mancini can think about who he wants to bring in, he must resolve issues around players no longer thought to be required.
Wayne Bridge and Craig Bellamy are both certain to return after West Ham and Cardiff were both condemned to play in the Championship next season, while it is also expected Emmanuel Adebayor will not have his stay at Real extended.

Tevez: I want to leave Man City

Manchester City skipper Carlos Tevez has told Argentinian radio that he is seeking a move away from the club as he needs "a change of scen

GettyImagesCarlos Tevez and Dimitar Berbatov are the Premier League's joint-top scorers with 20 goals

• Mancini: Tevez wants to stay
• Tevez: Family is key to decision
• City chairman rules out spending spree
Tevez, 27, has played an integral part in City's success this season and after helping the club end their 35-year trophy drought with victory in the FA Cup last Saturday, manager Roberto Mancini insisted the former Manchester United man was staying at Eastlands.
"Carlos has told me he wants to stay," Mancini said. ''I have spoken with him many times in the last 20 days and my opinion is he will stay. He has a five-year contract and has told us he wants to stay. He said that before. He never had any problem."
Tevez initially concurred with Mancini's assessment, claiming the chance to overhaul former club United provided him with a great incentive to stay.
But the striker, who handed in a transfer request in December before later withdrawing it, appears to have once again made up his mind that a new challenge is what he requires.
"I want to leave Manchester City," Tevez told Radio del Plata. "Football has changed a lot for me and I don't know if I will even make it to the next World Cup.
"And that has nothing to do with whether I'm selected or not. I've been treated very well here and I'm grateful. I also gave my everything for the club to receive the results it has had. But I need a change of scene."
The likes of Inter Milan and Real Madrid have been linked with the Argentina ace, who is believed to have turned down a massive new deal from City worth £300,000 earlier in the season.
Tevez's 21 goals this term have fired City into the Champions League for the first time in their history and his brace against Stoke on Tuesday has helped put the club on the brink of automatic qualification for the group stage of the competition ahead of Arsenal.
As well as interest from Italy and Spain, Tevez's former club Boca Juniors are reportedly ready to offer him a chance to return to his homeland, though the forward admitted the Argentinian side may not be able to afford him.
"To go back to Boca Juniors would be beautiful but it is very difficult," Tevez said. "I spoke to their midfielder Roman Riquelme and, messing around, we agreed I would go back one day. But if we're speaking seriously, financial issues would make my return difficult."
If City agree to let their prized asset go, his last game could be this Sunday's trip to Bolton and his last action could be to win the Premier League top scorer's crown - Tevez is currently level on 20 goals withManchester United's Dimitar Berbatov.

Schalke’s Raul: Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will know how to stop Barcelona

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson will know exactly what to do to stop Barcelona in the Champions League final, according to Schalke striker Raul.

The former Real Madrid forward and club record scorer faced the Catalan giants on countless occasions during a 16-year spell at the Bernabeu, where he won Europe’s most coveted prize three times.

Raul told reporters: “I don’t think there is a favourite.

“There is nothing I can tell the managers of United or Barcelona. They [Ferguson and Pep Guardiola] are both great coaches and at Manchester, in particular, Ferguson is a legend. He will know exactly what his players have to do to win and they will work on a plan.

“The two sides are both very well balanced and they will know each other very well, from playing each other in the final two years ago. They are both at the ultimate level.

“Barcelona are playing very well – that is clear – but Manchester United have proved against us and in the past that they can compete with whatever team they face. It will be a great final to watch."

Raul was a member of the Schalke side that lost to United in the semi-final, where veteran midfielder Ryan Giggs sent Sir Alex Ferguson’s men on their way with a second-half goal during the first leg in Gelsenkirchen.

Like Raul, Giggs believes United can topple the side likely to contain seven of the 11 players selected in the Spain side which triumphed in last summer’s World Cup, along with the almost Lionel Messi.

“He’s [Messi] the best player in the world at the moment – his goalscoring record is frightening,” said Giggs. “But he’s just one of many players we’ll have to look after and take care of.

“They have top players and if they all click it’s very difficult to beat a team like that, but it’s not impossible. We’ve got very good players who are at the top of their form at the moment. Just like they’ll be trying to hurt us, we’ll be trying to hurt them.

“I think we’re well matched in every department. Going into any top game, you need a gameplan and the players to go out and produce it. We’ll need to do that but ultimately once you’re out on the pitch you’ve got to have the confidence to play against what is a very good team.”

United will need to overcome the memory of defeat at the hands of the Spanish champions in Rome back in 2009 when Messi rounded off a comfortable night's work for Pep Guardiola’s men with a deft header after Samuel Eto’o had opened the scoring.

Giggs added: “We didn’t react after they scored in Rome. It knocked the stuffing out of us and if it happens again we need to reach better.”

'If we beat Chesea on Sunday, we should win the league' - Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson confident of lifting title

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Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has expressed his confidence in claiming the club’s 19th league title if they can overcome title rivals Chelsea in Sunday’s showdown at Old Trafford.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side have closed the gap since March, when they were 15 points behind table toppers United, and would go top with a superior goal difference if they were to beat United at the weekend.
However, Ferguson has hailed his team’s home form and feels that three points against the reigning champions will all but secure the title with just two further games remaining and six points separating the sides.
Ferguson told reporters on Friday: "If we win, I think we should win the league. Our home record is fantastic, probably the best in Europe, and it has to be on Sunday."
The Red Devils are unbeaten at home since last April, but the former Aberdeen man recognises the drive that his side’s opponents showed with their 2-1 comeback win at Stamford Bridge in March over United, pointing to that win as the turning point in their season.
"The result against us was the change for them," he said.
"That gave them that lift from being out of the game to winning it. And, of course, us losing to Arsenal on Sunday is going to open the door for them.
"It's a hard league to win, we know because we've been involved in championship races for almost 19 years."
After rotating his squad in the 4-1 win over Schalke in the midweek Champions League semi-final, Ferguson is expected to recall the likes of Wayne Rooney, Ryan Giggs, Javier Hernandez, Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand for Sunday’s clash.
"Last Sunday's defeat [at Arsenal] has certainly brought us an awareness of how important this week's game is," he commented.
"It is one of the reasons why I picked the team I did on Wednesday. I wanted to give us a real chance.
"We will have a fresh team on Sunday and that makes a difference at this time of the season."
Meanwhile, on the back of a 2-1 win against Tottenham, Chelsea skipper John Terry insists there is nothing stopping the Blues repeating their success of last season.
"We showed when we went to Old Trafford and won last year, which was the decisive game, that we could do it," he stated.
"There is no reason why we cannot do it again.
"Each season you know you are going to hit a bad spell, and it is about how quickly you can get out of it. We got out of it very quickly last year, and have taken a little longer this time - but once again we are right back in the frame.
"There is nothing I want more than to bring back that trophy."

Uefa hand Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho five-match ban

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Jose Mourinho has been handed a five-match ban and fined £44,000 by Uefa following his actions and comments during and after Real Madrid's Champions League semi-final first-leg tie against Barcelona.

Real Madrid have confirmed they will appeal this decision but as Mourinho has already served one game - his side's 1-1 draw on Tuesday at Camp Nou - and one other match is a suspended sentence, the Portuguese coach will miss his next three European games.

Following Real Madrid's defeat at home to Barcelona in the semi-final first leg, which included the dismissal of Pepe, who has already served his one-game suspension, Mourinho insinuated Barcelona were favoured by Uefa, a claim which was labelled as an "inappropriate statement" by the governing body.

Barcelona goalkeeper Jose Manuel Pinto, who was sent off at half-time for his involvement in a scuffle at the Bernabeu, has been suspended for three games, one of which has already been served.

Real Madrid have also been fined £17,000 for the "improper conduct of their supporters" during their first-leg tie.

"Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, who was dismissed from the bench in the first leg and made an inappropriate statement at the post-match interview, has been suspended for the next five Uefa club competition matches for which he would otherwise be eligible," read a statement on Uefa's website.

"The suspension includes the one-match ban for the match following the coach's dismissal, which was served for the return leg in Barcelona on Tuesday. The fifth match is suspended for a probationary period of three years. Mourinho has also been fined €50,000 [£44,000].

"Real Madrid have also been fined €20,000 [£17,000] for the improper conduct of their supporters.

"Meanwhile FC Barcelona goalkeeper Jose Pinto, who received a red card in the first leg match in Madrid, is suspended for three Uefa competition matches, and having already served a one-match ban for the return leg, will now also be suspended for the Uefa Champions League final on 28 May and the next Uefa club competition match for which he is eligible."

Schalke should not be downbeat; they were beaten by a better team The aggregate defeat suffered by Schalke at the hands of Manchester United was the heaviest inflicted at this stage of the competition since its inception. They were beaten by five clear goals and never looked like coming close to disrupting United over the course of two legs. Indeed, had it not been for Manuel Neuer, it could have been far worse. It leaves the European football audience with a perception of Schalke as a two-bit operation, scarcely able to string a pair of passes together in a row. They were underwhelming, that much is undeniable, but their run to that stage of the competition betrays the legacy they left to neutral observers. Schalke's campaign led to them being out of their depth, by a long way, but they deserved their shot at the big time. They negotiated their way past Lyon and Benfica, the Eagles representing Portugal as champions, before outmanoeuvring Valencia and outclassing reigning champions Inter. They did so with resolution, conviction and an intrepid spirit. Schalke supplied the tournament's outstanding goalkeeper and featured Jefferson Farfan as well as Raul who, at the age of 33, proved that there is life in the old dog yet. Felix Magath also introduced to the continental consciousness Kyriakos Papadopoulos and Peer Kluge, who were largely impressive throughout the campaign. More difficult times are afoot for Schalke, given their financial predicament and an impending transfer window, but the club and its supporters should look back on the 2011 Champions League campaign with much pride.

The Champions League has the final it deserves
An honest assessment of the current Champions League format leads to the inescapable conclusion that there are too many non-contests in a tournament that is bloated and plainly uncompetitive in its early stages. The whole thing is geared towards preserving the interests of the elite clubs, ensuring they are kept rich and happy, despite the machinations of Michel Platini, the Uefa president. The Champions League can be drab and uninspiring. The most competitive sides are kept segregated and, instead, processions between the haves and have nots are prominent.

But, unlike Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao in the boxing world, the two best club sides in football have an obligation to face each other at one stage or another. And so it brings us to Wembley on May 28. Manchester United make the trip to London to face Barcelona. Both are deserving finalists.

United's brand of football may have changed this season and they may be lacking in the way of outright excitement but it one of the grossest miscalculations of our time to say that this edition of Ferguson's team is a weak one. They are clear at the top of the Premier League and have just qualified for their third Champions League final in four seasons. You make not like them but you must respect them.

Barcelona have justifiably gained the critics' and fans' approval for their Champions League campaign. They have been electric at times but even they have their Achilles heel. Make no mistake, despite the format of the competition, it has still placed the best two teams against each other in the final. United's defensive resolution against Barcelona's possession football philosophy. The Catalans will monopolise the ball but Wayne Rooney or Nani will need only one chance to score.

It promises to be an enthralling show; a fitting finale to the biggest club competition in the world.

Schalke should not be downbeat; they were beaten by a better team The aggregate defeat suffered by Schalke at the hands of Manchester United was the heaviest inflicted at this stage of the competition since its inception. They were beaten by five clear goals and never looked like coming close to disrupting United over the course of two legs. Indeed, had it not been for Manuel Neuer, it could have been far worse. It leaves the European football audience with a perception of Schalke as a two-bit operation, scarcely able to string a pair of passes together in a row. They were underwhelming, that much is undeniable, but their run to that stage of the competition betrays the legacy they left to neutral observers. Schalke's campaign led to them being out of their depth, by a long way, but they deserved their shot at the big time. They negotiated their way past Lyon and Benfica, the Eagles representing Portugal as champions, before outmanoeuvring Valencia and outclassing reigning champions Inter. They did so with resolution, conviction and an intrepid spirit. Schalke supplied the tournament's outstanding goalkeeper and featured Jefferson Farfan as well as Raul who, at the age of 33, proved that there is life in the old dog yet. Felix Magath also introduced to the continental consciousness Kyriakos Papadopoulos and Peer Kluge, who were largely impressive throughout the campaign. More difficult times are afoot for Schalke, given their financial predicament and an impending transfer window, but the club and its supporters should look back on the 2011 Champions League campaign with much pride.

Mourinho is on to something; Madrid need to let him finish the job

Barcelona have built a dynasty. It began in 1979 with the inauguration of La Masia, from which Barca draw their organic talent. Current graduates include Victor Valdes, Gerard Pique, Carles Puyol, Xavi, Iniesta, Messi, Pedro and a host of younger players on the fringes of the first-team. Barcelona 2011, headed by former Cantera product Pep Guardiola, is a way of life which is 32 years in the making.

In Spain's capital, things are different. They have had four different first-team coaches since Guardiola took up his position in the summer of 2008. That's four different philosophies, four different ways of playing and plenty of transfer campaigns too.

Continuity has bred the success for Barcelona whereas chopping and changing has only led Madrid around a vicious cycle of perpetual renewal, expectation and failure. There has been the odd trophy; Bernd Schuster won a Liga title before Barca began their hegemonic dominance of Spain's top flight.

But during the course of these Clasico encounters, something changed. Madrid were outclassed in November but returned for the head-to-head duels a far stronger outfit. They beat the Catalans in a one-off Copa del Rey final. Barca only beat them once in four matches and los Blancos also emerged from Camp Nou undefeated. They may be out of Europe now but their defeat at the Bernabeu came only after a red card was issued to Pepe.

Real Madrid are closer to Barcelona than they have been in years. Jose Mourinho has brought them there. With another transfer campaign imminent and with the Portuguese having another pre-season during which to impose his will on his players, they can inch yet closer next season. Madrid will have taken strong belief in their own abilities thanks to the courage and strength shown in these matches. Madrid need to give Mourinho the time he needs. Because in the Special One, they may have found the solution.

Schalke should not be downbeat; they were beaten by a better team The aggregate defeat suffered by Schalke at the hands of Manchester United was the heaviest inflicted at this stage of the competition since its inception. They were beaten by five clear goals and never looked like coming close to disrupting United over the course of two legs. Indeed, had it not been for Manuel Neuer, it could have been far worse. It leaves the European football audience with a perception of Schalke as a two-bit operation, scarcely able to string a pair of passes together in a row. They were underwhelming, that much is undeniable, but their run to that stage of the competition betrays the legacy they left to neutral observers. Schalke's campaign led to them being out of their depth, by a long way, but they deserved their shot at the big time. They negotiated their way past Lyon and Benfica, the Eagles representing Portugal as champions, before outmanoeuvring Valencia and outclassing reigning champions Inter. They did so with resolution, conviction and an intrepid spirit. Schalke supplied the tournament's outstanding goalkeeper and featured Jefferson Farfan as well as Raul who, at the age of 33, proved that there is life in the old dog yet. Felix Magath also introduced to the continental consciousness Kyriakos Papadopoulos and Peer Kluge, who were largely impressive throughout the campaign. More difficult times are afoot for Schalke, given their financial predicament and an impending transfer window, but the club and its supporters should look back on the 2011 Champions League campaign with much pride.

The subtlety of Andres Iniesta supplied the antidote for the Clasico's ailments

It does not take a genius to figure out that the four Clasico matches between Barcelona and Real Madrid over the past three weeks were not conducted in the most sporting of spirits. There has been acrimony, indiscipline, violence, wars of words and ill-behaviour. Overall, it must be admitted, that the sequence has left neither club covered in glory.

Real Madrid were guilty of being overly physical and also of adopting a persecution complex once their violent ways were exposed. Barcelona deserve scorn for their hounding of referees and claiming the moral high ground even as Pedro, Dani Alves and Sergio Busquets were feigning injury and attempting to have opponents sent off.

Certain individuals, however, have managed to rise above the fetid effluent that has flowed between the two cities over the past month. Lionel Messi, above all others, has commanded the football headlines for his goals, but even he showed disrespect by booting a loose ball into the crowd at the Bernabeu.

The man who emerges unscathed is Andres Iniesta. He generally stayed out of the way of trouble and his performance against Real Madrid on Tuesday exuded class and dignity. He was rattled by a few fouls but got on with things and when the time came, he gave a pass of rare quality to send Pedro on his way to goal for the lead. Iniesta possesses the ball, usually, for only half the amount of time as his midfield partner, Xavi Hernandez. Xavi is a player of influence, Iniesta is a player of decisiveness. He is not on the ball every third pass; he flits, he roves, he finds space in which to work his subtle magic.

Busquets tackles, Xavi passes, Messi scores but, quite often, it is the man whose goal won the World Cup who makes all the difference.

Five things we learned from the Champions League this week

Schalke should not be downbeat; they were beaten by a better team

The aggregate defeat suffered by Schalke at the hands of Manchester United was the heaviest inflicted at this stage of the competition since its inception. They were beaten by five clear goals and never looked like coming close to disrupting United over the course of two legs.

Indeed, had it not been for Manuel Neuer, it could have been far worse. It leaves the European football audience with a perception of Schalke as a two-bit operation, scarcely able to string a pair of passes together in a row. They were underwhelming, that much is undeniable, but their run to that stage of the competition betrays the legacy they left to neutral observers.

Schalke's campaign led to them being out of their depth, by a long way, but they deserved their shot at the big time. They negotiated their way past Lyon and Benfica, the Eagles representing Portugal as champions, before outmanoeuvring Valencia and outclassing reigning champions Inter. They did so with resolution, conviction and an intrepid spirit. Schalke supplied the tournament's outstanding goalkeeper and featured Jefferson Farfan as well as Raul who, at the age of 33, proved that there is life in the old dog yet. Felix Magath also introduced to the continental consciousness Kyriakos Papadopoulos and Peer Kluge, who were largely impressive throughout the campaign.

More difficult times are afoot for Schalke, given their financial predicament and an impending transfer window, but the club and its supporters should look back on the 2011 Champions League campaign with much pride.

Five things we learned from the Champions League this week

Manchester United's rotation policy means that 'fringe men' are first choice

Not one of the Champions League semi-finalists managed to put a point on the board in their respective domestic leagues the weekend prior to their continental second-legs. Barcelona had a 1-0 lead overturned by Real Sociedad, Real Madrid endured jeers and a 3-2 home defeat by Real Zaragoza, Bayern Munich walloped Schalke 4-1 while Manchester United went down to Arsenal. Barca and Madrid competed with shadow squads and Schalke have not got the quality to fight effectively on two, or more, fronts by tinkering with their personnel.

The case of Manchester United is more interesting. Their tie with Schalke was as good as sealed with a 2-0 away win and they were in a unique position to rest their star performers for the second-leg, which was won comfortably in any case, whilst fielding a strong team at the Emirates due to their precarious lead at the top of the English Premier League. It was therefore a low-key foray into the Champions League for the likes of Darron Gibson and Jonny Evans, who came through unscathed.

Certain Madrid and Barca players looked overawed at the weekend and it has long been apparent that both Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola have a rigid favoured XI. Those then thrown into the limelight have either to sink or swim. But try to name United's preferred XI and you would come unstuck. There are always one or two places seemingly up for grabs. Sir Alex Ferguson has assembled a squad in which every member is on his toes, the league's top scorer, Dimitar Berbatov, included.

And it has brought him rich rewards, two-fold. Firstly, 'first-teamers' are on guard, aware that a sporting rival is on the fringes waiting to come in. Secondly, those on the sidelines are fresh because of Ferguson's well-adhered to policy of rotation. In his squad, everyone plays and everyone has a tangible chance of being 'first choice', injuries aside. There are very few slip-ups when the deputies are called upon. It keeps bodies and minds sharp and guards against complacency. It makes a winning team.

Fergie revels in semi-final dominance

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was delighted with his side's performance as they brushed Schalke aside to close in on a spot in this season's Champions League final.

AssociatedRyan Giggs set Manchester United on their way to an easy victory at Veltins-Arena

• Champions League Gallery
Ferguson has not enjoyed much luck against German sides in two-legged knockout ties in the Champions League, losing all four of his previous clashes.
But the tide appears to have turned for the wily Scot, after his United side comfortably beat Schalke 2-0 to close in on a Wembley berth.
United completely ran the first 45 minutes but could not find a way past Schalke's highly-rated goalkeeper Manuel Neuer and it took until the 67th for the away side to finally break the deadlock.
Ryan Giggs, who had missed a couple of fantastic chances, was played in by Wayne Rooney and finished well before Rooney himself made it 2-0 only two minutes later.
"Our concentration, intensity and speed of passing was excellent,'' Ferguson told Sky Sports. "We had less chances in the second half but were more dangerous, when Chicharito scored and it was offside it told the players they could beat the goalkeeper.''
Ferguson also suggested the ability to name the same starting 11 that played against Chelsea in the last round was a deciding factor.
"The continuity of selection in these games gives us good experience and work-rate and I have good options with the likes of Nani, Scholes and Anderson. We have selection problems now but that is what we want.''
The United boss even went as far as suggesting he could rest key players in the return leg as the fight to win back the Premier League takes preference.
"Depending on the result on Sunday [at Arsenal] I could make two or three changes because we play Chelsea the following weekend.
"We are a bit disappointed we didn't take more chances but overall we are delighted with the performance. In the first half especially we had some good chances and we were disappointed at half time not to be in front.''
But Rooney refused to accept that United now have one foot in the final at Wembley, knowing that Schalke scored five goals in the San Siro against Inter in the last round.
"Schalke are a good team and we can't take them lightly. We need to make sure we are professional and full concentrated,'' he said.
Giggs insisted the players were confident they would be able to find a goal despite being constantly thwarted by the impressive Neuer.
"We knew that if we kept creating chances one would go in and hopefully I would get one on my left foot rather than my right,'' he said. "Before the game we would have taken 2-0 but now we are slightly disappointed.''
The Welshman, who became the oldest player to score in the history of the Champions League, also praised the depth of Sir Alex Ferguson's squad.
"We've got a tough game coming up Sunday so the manager rotated and we are obviously pleased, the lads who came on did well too so it's not just about the 11 players, it's about the squad,'' he said.

United dismantle Schalke to close in on final

Barring an unlikely Schalke victory at Old Trafford next week, Manchester United will contest the Champions League final at Wembley on May 28 after a one-sided encounter in Germany.

GettyImages

Ryan Giggs slid home Manchester United's opener, making him the oldest goalscorer in Champions League history

Photo Gallery

Wayne Rooney shows his disbelief as another chance goes begging
(GettyImages)

• Photo Gallery

Scoring Summary

Ryan Giggs and the outstanding Wayne Rooney scored United's goals in a two-minute second-half spell in the semi-final first leg at the Vetlins-Arena.
Prior to that, though, Sir Alex Ferguson's men had wasted an astonishing 13 chances to score - 11 of them coming before the break.
It left Schalke needing a three-goal triumph to progress to a meeting with either Real Madrid or Barcelona. On this evidence, United have absolutely nothing to worry about.
And for Rooney in particular, the prospect of the club's fifth European Cup final - on the ground where they won their first in 1968 - means personal redemption, having returned to the Gelsenkirchen arena where he was sent off on his last visit for England, to produce a wondrous performance that confirmed his renaissance beyond any doubt.
As United trudged in at half-time, they cannot have known whether to laugh or cry. Their pace, power and precision was simply too much for Schalke, who were opened up with a regularity barely credible at this level of the game. Incredibly though, the score remained goalless.
Starting with a Rooney effort that flicked off Atsuto Uchida and forced Manuel Neuer into the first of a series of magnificent saves, and ending with a last-minute opportunity when Giggs raced onto a Rooney through-ball and failed to beat the Germany No. 1, United created 11 clear chances.
Had they done that over the duration of both legs, Ferguson would probably have been quite pleased. To do so in a single half, and not to take any of them, defied belief.
Rooney could only have wished he was on the end of some. Instead, Park Ji-Sung had two opportunities charged down, Giggs was denied by Neuer twice and Fabio flashed a half-volley over the bar.
By far the worst culprit was Javier Hernandez. Lauded in recent weeks after a series of timely interventions which have sent United surging towards a record 19th league title, the Mexican was too much for Schalke's beleaguered defence.
For once, though, the 22-year-old had left his shooting boots at home. Whether he was being set up by Antonio Valencia, outstanding on the right wing, Rooney or Park, Hernandez just could not find the target. Partly it was his fault as shots flew wide of the Schalke goal, while on other occasions Neuer was in the way.
It appears the Germany keeper is on his way to Bayern Munich this summer, which for United is a pity, because on this evidence he would be a worthy successor to Edwin van der Sar, who is retiring at the end of the season. On a record-equalling 13th semi-final appearance, Van der Sar was a virtual bystander once he had made a couple of early stops to deny Jefferson Farfan.
Worryingly for Ferguson, the profligacy continued after the restart. Neuer denied Michael Carrick with a brilliant fingertip save but, when the Schalke defence opened up for Giggs shortly afterwards, the Welshman's effort with his weaker right foot was woeful.
There must have been a huge fear in the United camp that Schalke would soon start to show the form that got them to this stage of the competition and put five goals past Inter Milan at the San Siro in the quarter-final.
Thankfully for Ferguson and his team, they did some damage first. Rooney was the architect of the opener, threading a fine ball through to Giggs who, with his left foot, calmly slotted home.
Two minutes late, United had another chance as Hernandez set up Rooney. From 10 yards and in a similar position to Giggs, he was never likely to miss as he bagged his 14th goal of the season.
In the knowledge that a three-goal triumph for Schalke at Old Trafford in eight days' time is impossible to imagine, Ferguson's introduction of Anderson and Paul Scholes was designed purely to shore up the midfield.
It worked, too, allowing United to stroll home and let their minds wander towards Sunday's Premier League trip to Arsenal.

Evra warns against 'disaster'

Patrice Evra knows at first hand the damage complacency could do to Manchester United's bid to reach the Champions League final and he has warned his team-mates to avoid a "disaster".

Press Pass Extra: Champions League semis

• Neuer rules out United move
• Fergie: That's one of our best
• Schalke 0-2 Man Utd
• Fergie hails Neuer super-show
• Fergie revels in dominant display
• Forum: Barca or Madrid in final?
Only a heavy defeat to Schalke at Old Trafford next week can end their hopes of playing in a third final in four years after their 2-0 win over the German side in Gelsenkirchen on Tuesday night.
It seems highly unlikely yet Evra knows the improbable can sometimes turn out to be possible, as his own career shows.
"In football you never know,'' the France defender said. "I remember playing for Monaco in the 2004 quarter-final and we played in the Bernabeu against Real Madrid and lost 4-2. Real thought they were going into the semi-final. They thought they were there already. But in the second leg we won 3-1 and went through.''
Evra believes that tie provides a valuable lesson and will ensure his team-mates do not get too far ahead of themselves and start dreaming of a Wembley date with either a Real Madrid side containing United old boy Cristiano Ronaldo or Barcelona, who gave them a footballing lesson during the 2009 final in Rome.
"We have to be as professional next week as we were last night and keep going,'' Evra said. "We have to win at Old Trafford. But I must say if we don't go through to the final now then it would be a disaster for Man United.''
Providing United retain the same mentality, Evra is certain they will make it. Certainly, there was little evidence last night of a team capable of going to Old Trafford and making a game of it, even if the 5-2 win at Inter Milan in the previous round shows what Schalke are capable of.
"We just have to do our job,'' Evra said. "We are very near to the final now but we have to complete the task we have started. I am not surprised we did well and the game was one-sided because we showed Schalke so much respect. We respected them a lot. Before the game we just said we play the semi-final and that it didn't matter who our opponents were. That was important in playing the way we did.

Barca backing Guardiola after rant

Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu says the club stand behind Pep Guardiola after the coach's uncharacteristic display of anger towards Real Madrid counterpart Jose Mourinho on Tuesday.

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In his press conference ahead of the first leg of the Champions League semi-final between the two great Spanish rivals, Guardiola abandoned his usual facade of indifference towards Mourinho in spectacular fashion.
His motivation was Mourinho's accusation that Guardiola had complained about referees who got their decisions right following Madrid's narrow victory in the Copa del Rey final, an accusation that drew a fiery response from the Barcelona boss.
Guardiola said on Tuesday evening: "Tomorrow at 8.45, we will meet each other on the pitch. Off the pitch he has already won. In this room [press room], he's the f*****g chief, the f*****g man, the person who knows everything about the world and I don't want to compete with him at all. It's a type of game I'm not going to play because I don't know how.
"I won't justify my words. I congratulated Madrid for the cup that they won deservedly on the pitch and against a team that I represent and of which I feel very proud. Off the pitch, he has already won, as he has done all year. On the pitch, we'll see what happens."
Whether Guardiola's response will ultimately be seen as evidence of mental disintegration or a stroke of genius to inspire his players, who drew 1-1 in the league match between the two clubs recently before losing the cup final, Barcelona have stood shoulder to shoulder with their coach.
Bartomeu has praised Guardiola for his conduct across the course of the campaign and said that it was only to be expected that he would eventually respond to such provocation from Mourinho.
"Pep has had exemplary behaviour throughout the season and now has had to respond," Bartomeu said. "Enough is enough.
"There has been [an] answer now, because they have not stopped all year while we have devoted [ourselves] only to soccer. Our coach, we would say [is] devoted only to compete, the sport, football and winning games."